Mandela bows out: Special report

Nelson Mandela became the embodiment of the new South Africa when white rule came to an end in 1994. This BBC News Online special report was compiled as he relinquished the presidency to his successor, Thabo Mbeki, following elections in June 1999.

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End of an era

Thabo Mbeki is sworn in as the new President of South Africa - finally lifting the burden of power from the shoulders of Nelson Mandela.

Also:

Nelson Mandela's departing speech in full
Thabo Mbeki's inaugural address
Picture gallery: A legend bows out
Your tribute: Talking Point on Air

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The BBC's Southern Africa Correspondent Jeremy Vine: "The government will miss the Mandela magic"

Thabo Mbeki's inaugural address
The ceremonial choir sing in the changes

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The Mandela years
Nelson Mandela's personal quest has seen him woo and win over a divided nation - doing more than any government policy to promote reconciliation, writes Carolyn Dempster.

Also:

Mbeki's challenge, by the BBC's Jeremy Vine

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Jeremy Vine reviews Mandela's life and work

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Flashback: South Africa's new dawn
From the archive: BBC Correspondent Fergal Keane's report on the defining moment of South Africa's landmark elections five years ago.

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Nelson Mandela's 'one nation' speech: 1994

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Landmarks in Mandela's life
A look back at some of the key moments in a turbulent career.

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From the archive: When Mandela walked free (1990)
Listen to Allan Little's hour-long documentary for BBC Radio 4: 'The triumph of Nelson Mandela'